Citroen Xsara Picasso nothing on dash lights up and car won't start

You say " After trying to add a new radio " did you blow any fuses perhaps ?

No I've checked all the fuses twice,the only other thing I've noticed is that the rear windscreen heater button doesn't light up either.Would it be anything to do with the onboard computer not recognising the key

Could try a BSI reboot ,see here



Peugeot and Citroen BSI (Body Control) units are very prone to failure. Symptoms include no indicators, ignitions lights on with no key, wildly incorrect cluster readings and complete non start. We can fix these units with a 2 year warranty. These units are own unit rebuilds which removes the need for coding.



Before sending the unit try the BSI Reset procedure as this may cure your faults:

Put the driver's window down, lift the bonnet and ensure all equipment is switched off.

Ensure all doors are closed and remove key from the ignition.

Wait for 3 minutes, disconnect the vehicle battery and wait 15 seconds.

Reconnect the vehicle battery, wait a further 10 seconds (do not open doors.).

Switch on the side lights through the driver's window.

Switch on the ignition and check system's functionality.

Hold lock button on key down for 10 seconds.

Remove key open & close door test central locking system.

Start the engine and complete the system's check.

Failure to follow this procedure could result in incorrect operation of many BSI related items.

I have tried this but still nothing is coming up on the dash and as for the rear windscreen heater light I've realised that that doesn't come on unless the engine is running so remove that from the equation.Someone has told me though that the system data may have been damaged and may need resetting,is this something that has to be done by a citroen main dealer or can it be done by any car electrician.

After having a diagnostic done it has revealed that the BSI and the immobiliser and instrument panel are not communicating with each other.I was advised to take it to a main citroen dealer who quoted me over £350 to check every circuit then a further £750 if I needed a replacement box.If there is anyway of doing this cheaper then it would be appreciated.As for sending the box I have absolutely no idea where it is in the car.

same thing was happening with me. found a 15amp fuse blown under the steering column. not on the main box, the little one beside it has 6 fuse in a row on it. needless to say was a relief. good luck folks.

Hi - My 2004 (petrol) Berlingo has a corrupt BSI and I want to re-boot it. But the instructions require an electronic key / central locking key, and I only have a manual one. Does that make the reboot impossible?

@boriski. I have replaced my car radio and have the same issue. What was the resolution in the end please ?